The Carolinas Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds (CARVC) successfully held its 2026 Annual Conference & Trade Show from January 31 through February 3 in Myrtle Beach, despite disruptions caused by Winter Storm Gianna.
The event showcased the resilience of the outdoor hospitality industry and maintained key educational and networking opportunities for participants.
The NFPA 1194 educational add-on session, led by instructor Al Johnson at Myrtle Beach Travel Park on January 31, drew 25 attendees and earned strong reviews.
While overall campground attendance dropped roughly 20% and Trade Show participation fell nearly 30% due to the storm, CARVC adapted quickly, adjusting schedules and ensuring most sessions proceeded as planned.
Keynote speaker Ken Corbin delivered two sessions, emphasizing industry trends and operational strategies. Additional roundtable “cracker barrel” discussions and panel sessions encouraged peer-to-peer learning and collaboration.
According to a press release, Executive Director Dee Witting thanked attendees for their dedication amid travel disruptions.
“We cannot thank enough those who attended the conference, with many taking days to arrive due to canceled flights and others driving under hazardous road conditions. The conference overall was a huge success, showing the resilience of the industry,” she said.
Technology played a crucial role in maintaining the conference’s flow. The official conference app, provided by App My Community, updated attendees on schedule changes during the storm, while 52 Unlimited, CARVC’s social media partner, recorded all sessions for later access.
The 2026 CARVC Annual Conference & Trade Show received support from a wide range of sponsors spanning multiple tiers. Show-level sponsors included Access Parks, Influence Digital Agency, Staylist, and Utility Supply Group.
Platinum sponsors were Campspot, Danielle Windus-Cook Properties, Electrical Works, E-Z Treat, Hawkins, and Storable Newbook, while Gold-level support came from CampLife, Good Sam, Lakewood Camping Resort, Leavitt Recreation & Hospitality Insurance, Myrtle Beach Travel Park, Ocean Lakes Family Campground, RV Life, and Sweet-Haus Tiny Cabin Company.
Silver-tier sponsors contributed to the conference’s success as well, including Lakeshore Aquatics, MacConnell & Associates, P.C., Original Jumping Pillows, Inc., ResNexus, RV Park Signs, Southeast Publications/MySites, and Wilcor.
Featured image by Carolinas Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds